NOVEMBER 2017 | NO.167 | ISSN 1322-3771 MCC NewsCLUB NEWS

A DAY TO REMEMBER FOR RICHMOND FANS

As the Tigers ROARED to their first FLAG in 37 years. See pages 12-13.

NOVEMBER 2017 MCC NEWS 1 CLUB NEWS

Life membership for Paul Sheahan

aul has strong ties to the MCC that go back several Three committee members – Adrian Anderson, Clare Cannon decades. A First XI premiership player, he is an MCC and Peter King – stood for re-election by rotation. Duncan PHonorary member, a XXIX Club member and in Banks, Bill Hodges Jr and John Mugavin presented themselves 2000 was selected in the MCC Team of the . He is also a for election via the ballot process. The results of the election Life member of the Marylebone Cricket Club. were were as follows: $QHOHJDQWULJKWKDQGEDWVPDQDQGāQHFRYHUāHOGVPDQKH played 31 Tests for between 1967 and 1974, scoring 1594 CANDIDATE TOTAL VOTES runs at 33.91, including two centuries. For , he scored UXQVLQāUVWFODVVPDWFKHVDWWKHH[FHOOHQWDYHUDJHRI CANNON, Clare* 5889 59.52. He was also an MCC First XI premiership player. KING, Peter* 5528 ANDERSON, Adrian* 5519 Seemingly on the verge of becoming Australia's regular Test MUGAVIN, P. John 3638 opening batsman, Paul retired at the relatively young age of 27 HODGES, Bill Jr 1926 to concentrate on his teaching career. He eventually served as BANKS, Duncan 1413 headmaster at Grammar School (1995-2009) after a decade as principal at Geelong College (1986-95). *retiring but seeking re-election Paul served on the MCC Committee for 28 years (1987-2015), including eight years as a vice-president and four years as As a result, Adrian Anderson, Clare Cannon and Peter King were president (2011-15). He chaired the Club Sub-committee and re-elected. During general business, members posed a number was a member of the Cricket Sub-committee. of operational questions to which the president, CEO and senior He was just the second MCC president to have played management responded. , after Hans Ebeling.Paul has also had an active involvement in many organisations, including as director of the Sir Robert Menzies Foundation, patron of the Anglicare Bequests Program, president of Lord’s Taverners Victoria and board member of The Alfred Hospital Foundation. He has also been a director of the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra and an Australia Day ambassador. In the 2014 Australia Day honours, Paul was made a Member (AM) in the General Division of the Order of Australia 'for VLJQLāFDQWVHUYLFHWRVHFRQGDU\HGXFDWLRQDVDWHDFKHU and through roles with sporting, charitable and community organisations'. "This great club has given me far more than I could ever give it,” Sheahan said in accepting Honorary Life membership. “It is Paul Sheahan (left) is congratulated by MCC president, Steven Smith, an honour I don’t deserve, but one that I will treasure forever.” after receiving Honorary Life membership at the club’s Annual (DUOLHULQWKHHYHQLQJSUHVLGHQW6WHYHQ6PLWK&(26WXDUW)R[ General Meeting in August. and treasurer Michael Andrew addressed the meeting and spoke to their reports contained in the 2016/17 Annual Report.

MCC CONTACTS

Mail PO Box 175, East Melbourne, Vic, 8002 T (03) 9657 8888 F (03) 9650 5682 Country and interstate 1300 367 622 Web www.mcc.org.au Email [email protected] Editorial contact [email protected] Publisher Photography Unless otherwise credited, images provided by MCC, SDP Media, Michelle Couling Photography or Getty images. Copyright Editorial material in MCC News is copyright and may not be reproduced without prior permission from the Publisher.

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2 MCC NEWS NOVEMBER 2017 CLUB NEWS

FROM THE PRESIDENT STEVEN SMITH, PRESIDENT

he MCG enjoyed one of the most DWWHQGHGWKHāQDOVVHULHVDQGDOVRWKH As part of our ongoing commitment to TH[FLWLQJ6HSWHPEHUVIRUDORQJWLPH year generally where our average crowd improving service to members during The city of Melbourne came alive with size increased to 51,000, up from 47,000 our busiest event days, we have decided the irresistible momentum of the Tigers in 2016. to trial a separate members’ enclosure and the attendance numbers at the One of the club's key focuses continues in outside Gate 2 for the use JURXQGUHĂHFWHGWKDWZLWKWZRāQDOV to be on improving our customer service. of members and their guests during RIDQGDFDSDFLW\JUDQGāQDO Everyone loves the MCG, but our goal is Test. This additional facility of 100,021. The noise generated at the for all our patrons to walk away from a for members will hopefully take some 5LFKPRQGJDPHVZDVH[WUDRUGLQDU\DQG YLVLWWRWKHÙ*WKLQNLQJKRZH[WUDRUGLQDU\ of the pressure off the more popular reminded us again how lucky we are to our staff were in making their day so bars within the Reserve and provide a have a ground the size of the MCG to special. IDQWDVWLFH[SHULHQFHIRUPHPEHUVVLPLODU host these huge crowds and a ground :HZHUHWKHUHIRUHYHU\H[FLWHGWR to the outdoor entertaining areas at which retains the atmosphere so well. recently win the Customer Service Lord’s with their champagne bar and Congratulations must go to Richmond Project of the Year award at the Nursery Ground picnic areas that work president, Peggy O'Neill and CEO, $XVWUDOLDQ6HUYLFH([FHOOHQFH$ZDUGV so well. Brendan Gale for following through on earlier this month for our CARE project. Last month also saw the club take WKHLUDPELWLRXVāYH\HDUSODQWRDFKLHYH The project involves thousands of our control of MCC Kew Sports Club, DPHPEHUVKLSH[FHHGLQJDQGD people being trained in the key habits ZKLFKZDVH[SHULHQFLQJVRPHāQDQFLDO premiership. Halfway through the year to great customer service. Much credit GLIāFXOWLHV:HKDYHFRPPLVVLRQHGDQ the prospects of Richmond winning the goes to Stuart and his senior leadership independent report on options for future ĂDJORRNHGUHPRWHEXWWKHLUVXFFHVVLV team for driving this project and to all use of the facility and we will be looking a reminder of how quickly things can our staff for embracing it with so much at ways to ensure that it becomes a turn around in our game when you have enthusiasm. The best part is we are only vibrant and viable venue. There is still momentum. two years into the three-year program some work to be done on future plans It's now two fairytales in a row after and there is still much to be done to and I will come back to members once the Bulldogs win in 2016, which is great reach the level that we are all aspiring to. WKHUHLVDPRUHGHāQLWLYHSURSRVDOLQ news for Melbourne supporters, as Whilst on the topic of awards we were place. they say “everything comes in threes”, also thrilled to win the Best Achievement I would also like to take the opportunity so hopefully 2018 will be the year of the to congratulate Paul Sheahan on Demons. becoming our newest Honorary Life +RZHYHUEHIRUHZHJHWWRRH[FLWHG “ Our goal is for all member. Life membership is the about football we have the Ashes series our patrons to walk greatest accolade that can be bestowed to look forward to. Whilst both sides away from a visit to upon members of the club and Paul have had patchy form over the past was a deserving recipient with his year, none of that will detract from the 'G thinking how H[WUDRUGLQDU\FRQWULEXWLRQWRWKHFOXE the gripping tension that is always at extaordinary our staff over many years at the highest level. It the heart of any clash between these was a very emotional Paul who accepted traditional rivals. It will be an absorbing were in making their the award at the recent AGM. summer of cricket. day so special. It has been a good year for the club. We also look forward to welcoming 7KHUHKDVEHHQVLJQLāFDQWFKDQJHZLWK our friends from the Marylebone Cricket in Venue Management at Stuart taking over from our highly Club who will be travelling to Australia Event Awards in September. The MCG regarded CEO of 17 years, Stephen to watch their national team in action. was recognised for its achievements over Gough, and the retirement of some long- We are delighted to be joined by their a 12-month period in 2016/17, including standing committee members. However, President, the RT Hon Lord MacLaurin the Guns N’ Roses concert, international it is this regeneration of personnel at of Knebworth, their chairman, Gerald soccer, the AFL Grand Final and many committee and management levels &RUEHWWWRJHWKHUZLWKVL[RIWKHLU more. that will continue to provide new ideas committee colleagues as our guests for To round out a very successful and refreshed enthusiasm to help us WKH%R[LQJ'D\7HVW period, the MCG was recognised for its continually strive to identify how we can As we rapidly approach Christmas it is a sustainability practices, being named do things better at the MCG. JRRGWLPHWRUHĂHFWRQWKH\HDUWKDWKDV WKH%HVW&RPPHUFLDO(QHUJ\(IāFLHQF\ I wish you and your families a safe been for the club. 3URMHFWDWWKH1DWLRQDO(QHUJ\(IāFLHQF\ and happy Christmas and hope you 6WXDUW)R[RYHUVDZKLVāUVWIRRWEDOO Awards. enjoy what promises to be a fascinating season as CEO and we are delighted with 7KLVUHFRJQLWLRQFRQāUPVKRZWDOHQWHG summer of cricket against our traditional WKHZD\KHKDVāWWHGLQ+HLVGRLQJD our team is and how dedicated they are English rivals. great job in managing the operations of in their determination to ensure the the ground which, as mentioned, were MCG remains the benchmark for all challenging with the big crowds that other stadia in Australia and overseas.

NOVEMBER 2017 MCC NEWS 3 CLUB NEWS

Sports facility in Kew open for business

ince our last edition, there have been Our long-term intention is for the site social aspect. SVRPHVLJQLāFDQWGHYHORSPHQWVZLWK to remain as a sports facility, run for the With multi-purpose bowling greens, regards to the governance of the sports EHQHāWRIPHPEHUV en tout cas tennis courts and coaching, and recreational facility available to MCC We have commissioned an independent DQDFWLYHEULGJHFOXEJURXSāWQHVV members in Barkers Road, Kew. report on options for future use of the programs, yoga, a bar, and bistro nights, -XVWRYHUāYH\HDUVLQWRD\HDU facility and we will be looking at ways to it is a great venue to host any event. MCC arrangement to use the facility, MCC Kew ensure the facility becomes a vibrant and members are most welcome to visit with Sports Club was placed into liquidation in viable venue for members. We will report invited guests. September, after its board chose to enter back to members once there is a more YROXQWDU\DGPLQLVWUDWLRQGXHWRāQDQFLDO GHāQLWLYHSURSRVDOLQSODFH GLIāFXOWLHV The Kew club, located at 397 Barkers For enquiries and However, we are pleased to advise that Road, offers a wide range of sports and bookings, please contact in the short-term the venue remains fully facilities and caters for all ages, whether club manager Rick operational and under MCC management. participating in a sport or joining in the Coate on 9817 3936 or [email protected], or visit the website at mcckew.com.au

MCC conquers America

JURXSRI0&&PHPEHUVKDVFRPSOHWHGWKHFOXEÚVāUVWPHPEHUVÚWRXURIWKH86$ Aand from all reports it may not be the last such venture. Led by club manager, Mark Anderson, the touring party kept up a hectic pace during the three-week trip in August-September. Highlights included seeing the opening night of the US Open tennis grand slam at Flushing Meadows, sightseeing in New York and Washington DC, Civil War monuments, the George Washington estate in Virginia, historical Charleston and charming Savannah. It was then on to the Napa Valley to take in the -famous wine region, followed E\DWULSZHVWWR6DQ)UDQFLVFRWRH[SHULHQFHWKHIRRGLHFXOWXUH$OFDWUD]DQGWKH famous Golden Gate Bridge. The tour then moved through the Monterey Peninsula and DORQJWKH3DFLāF&RDVWWR3DVR5REOHV 7KHMRXUQH\FRQFOXGHGE\WDNLQJLQ6DQWD%DUEDUDDQG0DOLEXEHIRUHāQLVKLQJXS in Santa Monica, Los Angeles to complete the ultimate tour. Tour operator Events Worldwide Travel is to be commended for putting together the well-planned itinerary and leading the tour so smoothly and successfully. 6DYRXULQJWKHVLJKWVDQGH[SHULHQFHVRIRWKHUFRXQWULHVZKLOHLQWKHFRPSDQ\RI fellow MCC members is a wonderful opportunity. We look forward to sharing details of RXUQH[WPHPEHUVÚWRXUVKRUWO\

4 MCC NEWS NOVEMBER 2017 CLUB NEWS Pavilions in the Park

CC members will be treated to or Lord’s, as well as a Pimm’s bar, food ZLOOEHDEOHWRVFDQLQWRWKHH[FOXVLYH MDQHZKRVSLWDOLW\H[SHULHQFHDW trucks, music and more. zone throughout the day, including WKH%R[LQJ'D\7HVWWKLVVXPPHUZLWK Open from 10.00am to 8.30pm on Provisional members who cannot temporary marquees to operate in Yarra December 26, 27 and 28, Pavilions in the otherwise access the Reserve on the Park, directly outside the MCC Members Park will be a great way to catch up with āUVWWKUHHGD\VRIWKH7HVW Valid visitor Reserve entrance. friends at the cricket during the Test, as tickets holders will also be able to scan Titled Pavilions in the Park and open well as review the day’s play with fellow their ticket to enter at any time. IRUWKHāUVWWKUHHGD\VRIWKH$VKHV7HVW members and guests. We are delighted to offer Pavilions members and visitor tickets holders With a capacity for up to 3000 people LQWKH3DUNDVDQDGGHGEHQHāW ZLOOEHDEOHWRUHOD[VRFLDOLVHDQG at any one time, the normal Members of membership. We believe it will mingle while enjoying a range of food Reserve rules and regulations will apply VLJQLāFDQWO\HQKDQFHWKH7HVWPDWFK and beverage options in comfortable with respect to dress standards and H[SHULHQFHDQGZLOODOVRHDVHVRPH surrounds. behaviour. pressure in many of our facilities inside 7KHH[FLWLQJDGGLWLRQFRPHVLQ Importantly, all categories of members the Reserve. response to feedback from members about the club’s ability to cater for the An artist’s impression sustained strong demand for food and of the hospitality area beverages on our biggest cricket days of in Yarra Park that will the year. be available to MCC Due to the building constraints inside members during the Test. WKH5HVHUYHH[SDQGLQJLQWR

Pitching in: WACA curator set for MCG

he man responsible for the WACA Ground and Murdoch University opportunity to work at one of TGround pitches in , Matthew Playing Fields. Australia's premier stadiums across Page, is bound for Melbourne after He has also played a key role in the multiple sports, which is a challenge being appointed head curator at the construction and maintenance of I've never experienced. MCG. the portable pitches soon to be used "In saying that, it's also very sad to Matthew replaces David Sandurski, at the new , which leave the WACA, because it's where who returned to Brisbane in will host its first event at the end of my journey began as a 14-year-old November to take up a role at the January. work experience student. Gabba after the retirement of Kevin “We are delighted to have secured "It's been an exciting journey to date Mitchell junior. the services of Matthew for such an and I'm really looking forward to what With more than 20 years’ important role,” said MCC CEO Stuart the future holds." experience in turf preparation Fox. “Matthew is highly regarded in The Ashes Test at the WACA on and turf management, Matthew has the cricket industry and has extensive December 14-18 will be Matthew’s spent the last seven years working experience in preparing first-class fifth Test in charge of the Test pitch in for the WACA and the last four as turf cricket pitches. Perth, after which we look forward to manager. In that role, he managed In announcing his decision, welcoming him to Melbourne amidst ground operations at the WACA Page said: "I'm excited about this a busy summer cricket schedule.

NOVEMBER 2017 MCC NEWS 5 CLUB NEWS

TECH TRIAL COULD CUT QUEUE TIMES

hether it’s a day at the cricket, WFriday night footy or a blockbuster concert, one of the biggest frustrations for stadium patrons is waiting in line for food or drinks while the action unfolds. In a ground-breaking initiative, the MCC has partnered with international technology company WaitTime to trial a crowd intelligence system at the MCG. 7KH0&*LVWKHāUVWYHQXHLQWKH southern hemisphere to work with WaitTime, whose product is being used at major sports stadiums in America. 8WLOLVLQJDUWLāFLDOLQWHOOLJHQFHVHQVRUV and advanced algorithms, the technology will track queues and wait times at a selection of food and beverage outlets at the stadium. This information will be displayed across dedicated screens, providing patrons with transparency over queue times for nearby outlets and ultimately empowering fans to make informed decisions about when and where they go for their food and drinks. The trial commenced during the AFL 0&&&(26WXDUW)R[ OHIW DQG:DLW7LPH&(2=DFKDU\.LOPD7KH0&*LVWKHāUVW Finals Series across several outlets in the venue outside of the USA to trial the company’s crowd intelligence technology. Olympic Stand and Great Southern Stand and will continue during the cricket season. Sporting greats join hall of fame

A wealth of sporting talent and achievement gathered in the National Sports Museum in October to celebrate their induction into the Sport Australia Hall of Fame. Each inductee and Legend is featured in the Spirit of Sport gallery in the NSM, the home of SAHOF since the museum opened nearly 10 years ago. This year, Olympic and Commonwealth Games champion sprinter Raelene Boyle was elevated to Legend status, the 33rd athlete to have that honoured bestowed. Included in Boyle’s display is a hand-painted kangaroo skin shoe she wore during the 1970 Commonwealth SRORSLRQHHU'HEELH+DQGOH\āYHWLPH Games, where she won gold in the 100m, Paralympic wheelchair basketballer DQG[PUHOD\DVZHOODVD Troy Sachs and Dr Grace Bryant (sports biographical video showcasing her career medicine). and achievements. The inductees are pictured here The individual inductees this year with Dawn Fraser (seated) after visiting were cyclist Brad McGee, pole vaulter the NSM to view the SAHOF display Steve Hooker, Australian football great and unveil their personal plaque in the , Paralympic icon Frank gallery. Ponta, taekwondo’s Lauren Burns, water Photo credit: Vicki Jones

6 MCC NEWS NOVEMBER 2017 CLUB NEWS MCG on the winners list

he club was thrilled to be The MCC created the CARE program Activities included replacing half recognised with three major after identifying customer service as the WKHH[LVWLQJ0&*OLJKWVZLWK/(' Tawards in recent months across QH[WPDMRUVWHSLQLWVHYROXWLRQDVDQ technologies, implementing a ‘smart’ the venue management, customer organisation and a stadium. The model air-conditioning system that adjusts VHUYLFHDQGHQHUJ\HIāFLHQF\VHFWRUV has at its core a focus on people and output based on the number of people In September, MCC won the Best their capability to provide a consistently in a room, and installing an innovative Achievement in Venue Management JUHDWH[SHULHQFHWRDOOFXVWRPHUVDWDOO building management system which award at the Australian Event Awards for times. allows the MCC to automate room our ability to deliver major events at the 0RUHWKDQSHRSOHZKRLQĂXHQFH ERRNLQJVDQGIXQFWLRQVDāUVWIRUD MCG over the previous 12 months. WKHFXVWRPHUH[SHULHQFHDUHEHLQJ sports stadium in Australia. During this time, the MCG hosted a trained in the key habits, values and 7KHSURMHFWUHVXOWVKDYHH[FHHGHG Guns N’ Roses concert, International EHKDYLRXUVWKDWWKH0&&KDVLGHQWLāHG H[SHFWDWLRQVDQGLQFOXGH Champions Cup and Brazil v Argentina as being critical to great customer •Saving 10 million kWh– an energy saving soccer matches, the AFL Grand Final, service. The three-year-project which is the equivalent of powering 1872 %%/GHUE\%R[LQJ'D\7HVWDQG involves more than 1000 event staff, houses for a year numerous other international and 160 permanent staff, 400 volunteers •Reducing energy consumption at the domestic matches that drew a total and a range of service providers across MCG by 23.9 per cent audience of around 3.5 million people. security, catering, ticketing and tourism •Cutting Co2 equivalent carbon The stadium was also home to a range functions. emissions by 20,982 tonnes. of community events such as Cinema at To round out a very successful The works were fully funded by the the ‘G, Stadium Stomp, Sleep at the ‘G period, the MCG was recognised for its MCC at a total investment of more than and MCG Open Day. sustainability practices, this time judged PLOOLRQZLWKWKHH[SHFWHGVDYLQJV The Australian Event Awards is the WKH%HVW&RPPHUFLDO(QHUJ\(IāFLHQF\ from the reduced energy consumption principal awards program for the 3URMHFWDWWKH1DWLRQDO(QHUJ\(IāFLHQF\ forecast to offset this cost by 2020. Australian events industry. Judged Awards. by an independent panel of judges The club has partnered with Siemens representing all areas of the industry, the to deliver a raft of improvements to the Best Achievement in Venue Management stadium’s energy use after identifying is awarded to a person or team within HQHUJ\HIāFLHQF\DQGUHGXFLQJFDUERQ a venue that “has enhanced the event emissions as a primary focus. The work H[SHULHQFHWKURXJKLWVPDQDJHPHQWRI LQYROYHGDQH[WHQVLYHXSJUDGHRIH[LVWLQJ the venue”. practices, as well as the installation of QXPHURXVQHZHIāFLHQF\V\VWHPVDWWKH stadium. “ The model has at its core a focus on people and their capability to provide a consistently great experience to all customers at all times.

The criteria included the quality of WKHYHQXHH[SHULHQFHIRUFXVWRPHU groups, a commitment to innovation LQHQKDQFLQJWKHHYHQWH[SHULHQFH GHJUHHRIGLIāFXOW\FRPPLWPHQWWR environmental sustainability and "best practice" techniques in management and of services. A few short weeks later, the club’s innovative customer service program at the MCG was named Customer Service Project of the Year - Cultural )DFLOLWLHVRSHUDWLRQVDQGFRQWUDFWVPDQDJHU0DUVKDOO+ROGLQJ OHIW DFFHSWVWKHFOXEÚVHQHUJ\HIāFLHQF\ award; TOP: MCC staff Josh Eltringham, Carolyn Parton, Ben McAuliffe, Kimelle Smith, Claire Bennett Transformation at the Australian Service and Stephen Philp with our customer service award. ([FHOOHQFH$ZDUGV

NOVEMBER 2017 MCC NEWS 7 SPORTS HERITAGE

Sport's rich tapestry on show

1RZKHUHHOVHFDQ\RXāQGDPXVHXPWKDWFHOHEUDWHVDQDWLRQ VULFKVSRUWLQJKLVWRU\ like the National Sports Museum at the MCG.

Across a multitude of sports, the museum features artefacts from some of the country’s biggest heroes and highlights moments that have shaped Australian sport. Our hardworking team continues to develop and refresh the content on display to align with current events and WKHPHV7KHVHUHFHQWVKRZFDVHVDQGDFTXLVLWLRQVDUHZRQGHUIXODGGLWLRQVWRWKHYLVLWRUH[SHULHQFH

AFL WOMEN'S ASHES AT THE MCG In the Australia’s Game gallery we now A new display, titled A Testing Tradition, have a range of material acquired from has been installed outside Frank Grey this year’s inaugural AFL Women’s Smith Bar and displays objects associated competition. with Test matches played at the MCG Among the items are guernseys worn by involving Australia and England. Harriet Cordner (Melbourne) and Phoebe Some of the items include a trophy McWilliams (Greater Western ), awarded to Hugh Trumble for taking a both of whom are MCC members. hat-trick against England in the second Also featured are shorts worn by Test of the 1901/02 series, a bat used by Adelaide Crows forward Sarah Perkins England’s Jack Hobbs during the 1920/21 in the AFLW Grand Final, training boots series, Bill Woodfull’s baggy green cap worn by Collingwood Stephanie worn during 1928/29 and a jumper worn Chiocci and the coin tossed before the by England’s Trevor Bailey during the KLVWRULFāUVW$)/:PDWFKEHWZHHQ 1950/51 series. Collingwood and Carlton at in February. AUSSIE GOLD Rounding out the display are two Finally, the Heroes section of the Faster medallions created to commemorate Higher Stronger gallery has had a number WKHāUVW$)/OHYHOZRPHQÚVIRRWEDOO of medals won by Australian athletes match, between Melbourne and Western added to the display. Bulldogs at the MCG in 2013, and boots Among them are Mack Horton’s 400 worn by Adelaide’s Tayla Thorn during metres freestyle gold medal from last KHUāUVWVHDVRQSOD\LQJ$XVWUDOLDQIRRWEDOO year’s Rio Olympics, rower and MCC with Northern Territory club Palmerston member Kim Brennan’s gold medal from Magpies in 2010. Rio and her silver and bronze medals from the London 2012 Games, and freestyle ALBERT BROOMHAM skier Lydia Lassila’s gold medal from the The Pioneer highlights several objects 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics and associated with Albert Broomham. bronze medal from the 2014 Sochi Games. Broomham played in the inaugural season of the Rugby League Premiership in 1908 and would go on to represent New South Wales, MCC members can access Australia and Australasia. the National Sports Museum Some of the objects on display for the on non-match days at a āUVWWLPHLQFOXGHD16:FDSD discounted rate of $20 Australia cap and a trophy awarded to (normally $24) by showing their membership card at the Broomham upon his selection for the ticket counter. Members and 1911/12 tour of Great Britain. They will be their guests can also access available for viewing in the NSM until May the NSM at 50 per cent off QH[W\HDU normal prices on MCG event days.

8 MCC NEWS NOVEMBER 2017 SPORTS HERITAGE GOLDEN GIRL WAS AN MCG ICON

he sporting world was very saddened by the passing of Betty statue in her honour outside the MCG,” said Studham. “However, TCuthbert AM, MBE, in August at of 79. I think she would have been even prouder to know it was the Nicknamed “the Golden Girl” after her performances at the āUVWSXEOLFVWDWXHRIDQ$XVWUDOLDQZRPDQWREHHUHFWHGLQ Melbourne Olympics, Betty is a legend of Australian sport, one Melbourne.” whose achievements are intrinsically linked to the MCG. Betty was also featured on one of the eight bronze doors As an 18-year-old, Betty won gold medals on the MCG in designed by Robert Ingpen to celebrate the sesquicentenary WKHPHWUHVPHWUHVDQG[PHWUHVUHOD\DWWKH of the MCC in 1988. The doors are currently displayed in the 0HOERXUQH2O\PSLFV,QGRLQJVRVKHEHFDPHWKHāUVW Anniversary Gallery on Level 3 of the Members’ Pavilion. Australian athlete to win three gold medals at a single Olympics. Although based in Western Australia, Betty was a strong After missing the Rome Olympics in 1960 due to injury, she supporter of the MCC and its commitment to sporting heritage. came out of retirement to win a fourth gold medal at the Tokyo She donated much of her personal collection of sporting Games in 1964 in the inaugural women’s 400 metres. memorabilia, including her four gold medals, to the National ,QKRQRXURIKHURXWVWDQGLQJFDUHHU%HWW\ZDVRQHRIWKHāUVW Sports Museum, where it is currently on display. athletes recognised with a statue outside the MCG as part of the Betty is also featured in the Sport Australia Hall of Fame in the Tattersalls Parade of Champions project. NSM, including video footage of her 100m and 200m wins at the The statue, created by sculptor Louis Laumen, captures Betty MCG in 1956. LQIXOOĂLJKWDQGZDVXQYHLOHGRXWVLGH*DWHLQ$XJXVW “While her passing brings sadness, it is the joy that her with a who’s who of Australian sport in attendance. running achievements generated across the nations that has In the latest edition of The Yorker magazine produced by been readily apparent since her death, with the proliferation the MCC Library, head librarian David Studham recalled the of people reminiscing about watching her compete here at the occasion. MCG or their stories of encounters with one of the most genuine “I will never forget the happiness, and indeed tears of joy, on and delightful ladies you will ever meet,” said Studham. her face the day in 2003 when she watched the unveiling of the Vale, Betty.

$%29(&XWKEHUWLVĂDQNHGE\2O\PSLDQV Matt Welsh (left) and Russell Mark at the unveiling of her MCG statue in 2003.

MIDDLE: Betty Cuthbert shown ZLQQLQJWKH2O\PSLF*DPHVVHPLāQDO of the 200 metres at the MCG in 1956. This souvenir cover from The Argus QHZVSDSHULQFOXGHGRQHRIWKHāUVW descriptions of Cuthbert as the “Golden Girl of Australian Athletics”.

NOVEMBER 2017 MCC NEWS 9 MCG EVENTS Early bird state of Origin tickets

nother MCG record crowd looms when State of Origin membership card to enter the Reserve. All categories of Arugby league returns to the MCG on Wednesday June members will be able to purchase up to four visitor tickets 6 next year for Game 1 of the hugely popular three-game for guests. Reserved seats on Level 1 and 4 are also series. available. A massive crowd of 91,513 packed the home of sport for Members will be rewarded for purchasing their tickets the last Origin match in 2015, with expectations of a similar early, as entry entitlement and visitor ticket prices will crowd this time around to watch arch rivals New South increase from Sunday December 24 at 5.00pm. Wales and Queensland. Entry entitlements for members currently cost $50, and As part of the club’s contractual arrangements with the visitor tickets cost $110 (adults) and $75 (children aged , the normal first-in, first-served 6-14). From Christmas Day, these prices rise to $60, walk-upwawalk-uup accessaccessss toto thethe MCCMCM C MembersMeMembmbers ReserveReses rvve willwill bebe $135$1$ 35 andand $85$858 respectively,resspep ctctivivele y,y soso makemaakeke suresurre youyoy u securesecure youryour affordedaffoordedd toto membersmembers andand theirtheiir guests.gug ests. ticketingtickc etting needsnen eds beforehand.beb fof rehah ndd. However,HoHoweweveverr,, MCCMCCC membersmeme bebers willwili l bebe requiredreqequiirered to pre-prer - TicketsTiTickkete s cancaan bee purchasedpururchc asaseded atat Ticketek,TiT ckckete ekek, oror inin personpep rsonn atat thethe purchasepupurcrchahasese a subsidisedsububsisididisesed entitlementenentit tltlememennt inin orderordrderer toto validatevavalilidadatete theirtheeirir club.clclubub.

AFL schedule: mark your diaries

he MCG will host 45 matches in the 2018 TAFL home and away season, commencing with Richmond v Carlton on Thursday March 22 as part of a triple header in the opening round. Two nights after the Tigers unfurl their premiership flag, MCG co-tenants Hawthorn and Collingwood will do battle on Saturday March 24. Melbourne and Geelong Cats will round out the weekend of MCG action, a clash most notable for the return of Gary Ablett in the blue and white. Marquee matches on Easter Monday, Queen’s Birthday, , Anzac Eve and Dreamtime at the ‘G have all been retained. Richmond’s premiership win has seen them awarded 14 matches at the MCG, three more than last season, while Geelong Cats will play seven games at the ‘G, up from five. There are five Friday night matches at the MCG and five rounds of tripleheaders. Detailed arrangements for the 2018 AFL season, including access for Provisional members as well as visitor ticket on-sale dates, will be confirmed early in the New Year.

10 MCC NEWS NOVEMBER 2017 MCG EVENTS

Ashes hostilities resumed

here is no more momentous now on sale. As we went to print, visitor Toccasion in cricket than an Ashes tickets had sold out for Day 1 of the Test, 7HVWRQ%R[LQJ'D\DWWKH0&*DQGWKLV but were available for all other match summer’s contest will whet the appetite days. 2017/18 cricket at the MCG of every cricket fan. A limit of two visitor tickets will apply Last time England visited our shores, a to Full and Restricted members on days

world record Test cricket crowd of 91,112 2 and 3 of the Test, and four for all other

attended the opening day of the MCG international and domestic match days. Australia v England (Dec 26-30) Test, as Australia marched on towards Provisional members will not be able to a 5-0 whitewash. England captain Joe use their card to access the Members One-Day International Root will be looking for a much more 5HVHUYHRQWKHāUVWWKUHHGD\VRIWKH competitive performance this time Test. Australia v England (Jan 14) around, as the visitors seek to retain the Entries in the Members Dining Room Ashes secured at home in 2015. and Jim Stynes Grill ballots for all days International The two countries will also contest of the Test will open from Monday a series of 50-over and Twenty 20 December 11 at 9.00am until Tuesday Australia v England (Feb 10)

matches, with the MCG to host one of December 12 at 5.00pm. T20 Big Bash League (men's) each in January and February. A new hospitality addition for all 0HOERXUQH6WDUVZLOOSOD\āYH%%/ categories of members and guests this Stars v Heat (Jan 2) and three WBBL games at the MCG in cricket season is the Pavilions in the Stars v Renegades (Jan 6) January. Of those, the marquee day on Park area in Yarra Park, directly outside Stars v Sixers (Jan 16) the calendar will be the women’s and WKH0HPEHUV5HVHUYHRQWKHāUVWWKUHH Stars v Thunder (Jan 20) men’s doubleheader between Melbourne days of the Tests. See page 5 for more Stars v Hurricanes (Jan 27) Stars and on information. Saturday January 6. This event has All other details pertaining to the T20 Big Bash League (women's)

attracted crowds of 70-80,000 in the last 2017/18 cricket season, including detailed Stars v Renegades (Jan 6) two summers and interest is sure to be access entitlements for Provisional Stars v Thunder (Jan 20) just as strong this time around. members, can be found on mcc.org.au/ Stars v Hurricanes (Jan 27) Visitor tickets and reserved seats to ashes2017 or in the eight-page cricket Stars v Hurricanes (Jan 28) all international and BBL matches are guide now available to members.

Go green with

This summer’s T20 Big Bash League competition sees the MCG hosting five Melbourne Stars men’s matches, along with four women’s BBL games. Yet again, the Melbourne Stars are offering a unique MCC membership upgrade. For just $45, members will receive invitations to special events, ticketed access to the Etihad Stadium derby on January 12, Stars merchandise discounts and a membership pack, including your choice of MCC/Stars seat cushion, scarf or Stars carry bag. Whether you have renewed your MCC membership for the current season or are still to do so, you can buy your MCC Stars membership by logging in to the MCC website and using your seven-digit reference number. With the Stars men’s lineup containing names such as Kevin Pietersen, and , along with leg-spinner Kristin Beams leading the women’s team, let’s hope the MCG-based sides can finally take home a BBL/WBBL title.

NOVEMBER 2017 MCC NEWS 11 CLUBCLUB NEWNEWSS

fever grips the 'G - and the city

The 2017 AFL Grand Final brought an end to 37 years of heartbreak and anguish for Richmond supporters, with the Tigers mauling the Crows at a packed MCG.

t had been a long time in the making, but in the end triumph would be afforded access. After the initial queue cleared and the was swift and merciless, as Richmond defeated Adelaide morning unfolded, it was felt the Members Reserve would reach ICrows by 48 points at the MCG on the last Saturday in capacity without the need to sell entry tickets to Restricted 6HSWHPEHUWRZLQLWVāUVWSUHPLHUVKLSVLQFH members. In one of the more even AFL seasons in recent memory, the 7KHāQDOJURXQGDWWHQGDQFHZDV×MXVWWKUHHVKRUWRI 7LJHUVVWRUPHGLQWRWKHJUDQGāQDORQWKHEDFNRIELJ0&*ZLQV capacity, and the highest crowd at the MCG for any event since over Geelong Cats and GWS Giants. Anticipation among long- the northern stand redevelopment was completed 11 years ago. VXIIHULQJ7LJHUVIDQVKDGLQWHQVLāHGGXULQJJUDQGāQDOZHHNDQG American rock band provided the perfect lead-in to WKHÙ*ZDVEX]]LQJE\WKHāUVWERXQFH the main event, and doubled up with a performance on stage at After trailing by 11 points at quarter time, the Tigers sealed the premiership party after the match, including a memorable WKHLUWKĂDJZLWKDUXQRIVHYHQXQDQVZHUHGJRDOVIURPHDUO\ cameo from Tigers forward on their smash hit, Mr in the second quarter. Adelaide scored three late consolation Brightside. goals, but nothing could take the gloss off Richmond's 16.12 (108) to 8.12 (60) triumph. capped off an amazing season by adding the 1RUP6PLWK0HGDOIRUEHVWDāHOGWRKLV%URZQORZ0HGDO attendance premiership medallion and numerous media awards. The WRXJKDQGVNLOOIXOPLGāHOGHULFHGWKHJDPHZLWKDJRDOLQWKH last quarter that led to an outpouring of emotion from the Tigers army – both inside the stadium and in Yarra Park, where 100,021 thousands of fans who could not get a ticket had gathered to watch the contest. Earlier in the day, and overnight for some, MCC Full members took their place in the queue outside Gate 2 for walk-up seating 2QWKH6XQGD\DIWHUWKHJUDQGāQDOWKH0&*SUHFLQFWZDV in the Reserve to see the big match. WKHSODFHWREH$URXQGSHRSOHĂRFNHGWR0&*2SHQ 7KHFOXEKDGDQQRXQFHGHDUO\LQJUDQGāQDOZHHNWKDWLW Day, taking the rare opportunity to go behind the scenes at would review the walkup numbers of Full members and guest Australia’s favourite stadium, while a similar number were at cardholders before determining whether Restricted members , reliving and rejoicing.

12 MCC NEWS NOVEMBER 2017 NOVEMBER 2017 MCC NEWS 13 CLUB SPORT

MCC women's football kicks off

he MCC has been accepted into named Sydney Women's AFL Coach of DVVLVWLQJZLWKDQ0&&IRRWEDOOWHDPQH[W Tthe Victorian Amateur Football the Decade in 2009. It’s an impressive season, or know someone who is, please Association as a member club for the resume. contact us on (03) 9657 8888 or email 2018 women’s season, with plans now Lachlan will be joined by former [email protected]. āUPO\LQSODFHWRāHOGRXULQDXJXUDOWHDP Melbourne FC player Russell Robertson, in a women’s competition. who has taken a coaching ambassador The aim is to complement the elite role. women’s football played by Melbourne Lachlan and Russell have hit the ground Football Club with a lower-level running, with training sessions being community team in the MCC name. held on Tuesday evenings in St Bede’s Home matches are likely to be played at College through November-December. the soon-to-be-completed Beaumaris If you are interested in playing or Secondary College. An initial open training session was held on October 28 to gauge interest from potential players, and we were very pleased with the response. Since then, we have appointed Lachlan Worthy as head coach of the MCC women's football club. Lachlan joins us from St Kevin's Old Boys, where he was Reserves coach in 2017, and brings with ABOVE: Lachlan Worthy, the MCC’s inaugural women’s KLPH[WHQVLYHH[SHULHQFHLQZRPHQ V football head coach. LEFT: The football coaching. FOXEÚVāUVWZRPHQÚVIRRWEDOO He was Sydney University Women's training session in October was well attended. AFL coach for eight seasons (2000- 07) including three years as the NSW state team coach (2000-03) and was

Isabel is footy's number one

he Huntington family’s sporting talents continue She has also been recovering from an anterior Tto shine through, following the Western cruciate ligament knee injury that saw her sit out of Bulldogs’ decision to select 18-year-old Isabel football this season, after a broken leg in 2015. Huntington with its number one selection in the AFL Despite the setbacks, Bulldogs coach Paul Groves Women’s Draft last month. is excited by what he sees, describing Isabella as “the A newly elected MCC Provisional member, Isabel complete package”. is the granddaughter of MCG volunteers Ian and "She's really versatile, can play down back, midfield, Marie Huntington, both of whom were talented up forward where she'll potentially support Katie sportspeople in their own right. Marie was a talented Brennan,” he said. squash and tennis player, and a keen golfer. “It's a massive honour,” Isabel told reporters after Ian is a former MCC cricketer who captained and the draft selection. “I would have been happy to go coached the club, and also played for Victoria. He anywhere, any pick. also played hockey, tennis and baseball for MCC, the "It doesn't really matter when you get into the club, latter at state level, and won the Hans Ebeling Award whether you're one or 100, but I'm pretty honoured in 1983 for outstanding service to our sporting they think of me that highly and I'm just excited to get sections. started." Isabel, who hopes to study medicine, has just Ian and Marie also have a grandson, , completed her Year 12 studies while coping with who made his AFL debut with the GWS Giants in July the adulation and pressure that comes with being a and, like Isabel, looks to have a bright future. number one draft selection.

14 MCC NEWS NOVEMBER 2017 CLUB SPORT David Crow wins Hans Ebeling Award

ormer MCC vice-president David was instrumental in the vibrancy the David was also at the helm during one FCrow was recognised for a decades- FRPSHWLWLRQH[SHULHQFHGGXULQJKLVWLPH of the successful cricket seasons in MCC long contribution to MCC sport at the 'DYLGÚVDIāQLW\ZLWKFULFNHWDQGRXU history. In 2012/13 we peeled off eight of Sporting Sections Annual Dinner on sporting heritage were constants during the available 13 titles, including the First November 1, where he was the recipient a 24-year stint on the MCC Committee XI premiership, and it is an achievement of the prestigious Hans Ebeling Award. (1993-2017), the last four years as vice- of which he is most proud. Perpetuating the memory of one of president. Apart from his cricket service, David the MCC's greatest contributors, the $PRQJ'DYLGÚVPRVWVLJQLāFDQW has been a strong supporter of our Hans Ebeling Award was introduced in contributions were his terms as heritage operations. He initiated an 1981 to honour those who have given chairman of the Australian Cricket Hall MCG statues program, which led to the outstanding service to our Sporting of Fame and his role as MCC Cricket Tattersall’s Parade of the Champions Sections. chairman in the establishment of our project and the more recent Australia David joined the club in 1967 to play inaugural MCC women’s cricket teams Post Avenue of Legends series in Yarra cricket, and debuted in the First XI that āYH\HDUVDJR Park. season as a budding fast bowler. The potential that the talent scouts saw in David was evidenced by him winning the First XI in 1969/70. David, like many fast bowlers, was plagued with injury and played in various JUDGHVEHIRUHKHDGLQJRYHUVHDVIRUāYH years after the 1972/73 season. He returned to the club in 1978/79 and in ensuing years captained the Fourth XI and the ‘C’s in the MCC Club XI competition. David Crow (left) He also took on the role of MCC receives the Hans Club XI Cricket competition convenor, which he held for nine seasons. This Ebeling Award from involved running a cricket competition MCC president virtually single handed and David Steven Smith.

Cricket future in good hands

The MCC continues to play a prominent have been selected in the Victorian has won one of four matches. In the Club role in developing the next generation country team, with Zac Mevissen in the XI competition, MCC’s Division 2 team had of cricket talent, with a number of our Victorian metro lineup. won one of its first four matches, while our players chosen at representative level That tournament will also feature a Division 3 team sits second on the ladder. already this season. XI comprising the best At first-class level, three MCC players players from the Australian Under 17 – Chris Tremain, and Seb championships, and MCC’s Patrick Rowe Gotch – have played for the Victorian will take part. Bushrangers in the first four rounds of the The women’s Victorian Under 18 Sheffield Shield competition. Tremain squad features MCC’s Olivia Downes has been the pick of the bunch, taking 15 and Jordan Watson, while the women’s at 23.6. Victorian Under 15 metropolitan squad The trio was joined by , contains Jessica Grant, Ella Hayward and and in Kampi Nainhabo. the Bushrangers team during the JLT After 10 rounds of men’s Premier One-Day Series played in October, while Cricket, the First XI was off the pace and young fast bowler in desperate need of a change in form, played in the same tournament for a while the Second XI was one point out of Cricket Australia XI. the eight. Our Third XI was two wins out At junior level, MCC will have three of the eight, while the Fourth XI was in TOP: MCC 300-game player Steven McCooke Victorian representatives in the men’s fourth place. presents a First XI cap to 14-year-old debutant Australian Under 19 tournament to be In the women’s competition, our First Ella Hayward in November. BOTTOM: Brad held in from December 4-15. XI was in third place after six matches, Melville sends one down for the Demons. Wilson McGillivray and Brad Melville with the Second XI on top. The Third XI

NOVEMBER 2017 MCC NEWS 15 SPORTSSPORTS HERITAGEHERITAGE

Four decades on, guides are still the face of the 'G

hether it be as an MCG Tour Museum and the corridor of Sporting wrote to the 50-Year members group WGuide, in the MCC Library or Sections photographs on the upper to enlist more volunteers. This group, in the National Sports Museum, our level known as Bourke Street because along with the original MCC Guides 350-strong band of volunteers plays of the heavy foot traffic on match and the Gallery Rovers, formed a a vital role in ensuring that every days. new alliance in September 1991 and visitor has a positive experience and In early 1987, following the opening became the MCG Tour Guides of today leaves with a heightened sense of our of the Australian Gallery of Sport in the famous striped blazers in club national sporting culture and heritage. adjacent to the Members Pavilion, colours. This year marks the 40th anniversary another group of volunteers was Tours began running on every non- of the first MCG Tours, which have enlisted to help show groups through match day on the hour, from 10.00am since become a cornerstone of this new museum space. This group, to 3.00pm, and in 1994 demand was tourism visitation at the stadium on also recruited from the ranks of MCC, such that the tours began to run on non-match days. They are enormously were known as Gallery Rovers and the half hour as well. popular with visitors, whether from wore a distinctive mustard jacket. Today, during busy periods such as overseas, interstate, regional Victoria In the November 1987 edition of school holidays and grand final week, or inner Melbourne. MCC News, the club put a call out for tours run as often as every 15 minutes Part of the success of the visitor more guides, deemed “necessary to in order to meet demand, with up to experience on non-match days at cope with greatly increased tourism 150,000 visitors to the ground each the MCG lies in the knowledge and activity and booming attendances at year. experience acquired by our volunteers the Australian Gallery of Sport during We are enormously proud of, and over several decades of service. the club’s 150th birthday celebrations”, indebted to, the men and women who Among them are MCG Guides which were set to take place the give their time so freely in order to Bernard Allen, Margaret Forster and following year. present our great club and stadium to Len Mill, who have been taking guided Four years on, with the tours the world. Long may it continue. tours since 1987, and Steve Mason becoming increasingly popular, then (since 1989). Up in the world-class club president Dr Donald Cordner MCC Library, Ray Webster is fast approaching 30 years’ service, while Eric Panther has been assisting and researching for an astonishing 34 years. MORE THAN A CENTURY of combined service

It was the formation of a Tour Guides group 40 years ago that laid the foundations for the strong volunteer contribution we see today right across the club. The first formal tours began in 1977 when a group of passionate MCC members formed an association called the MCC Guides in order to show visitors around the Pavilion for the Centenary Test. These first volunteers wore a round badge much like the one worn by Long Room Wine and Food Society members today. Each guide took their own tour, which was not scripted, and some tours lasted as long as three hours! Tours then ran every Wednesday morning and were confined to the highlights of the 1927 Pavilion, including the Long Room, the MCC

ABOVE: Some of our longest-serving MCG volunteers: Bernard Allen, Steve Mason, Ray Webster, Len Mill and Eric Panther. TOP RIGHT: Len with the original Rovers jacket that preceded the now-familiar MCC blazer. TOP LEFT: The MCG Tour Guides, circa 1980, three years after the stadium tours began. 1616 MCCMCC NEWSNEWS NOVEMBERNOVEMMBEEER 2017 PROFILES

Roy's message heard in high places

CC 50-Year member Roy Francis clubs and community centres. These the award. “I really enjoy doing what I’m Mhas won the prestigious Victorian include the Mornington National Seniors doing and I’d like to think I’m making a Senior of the Year award for his tireless group, Mornington Croquet Cub and the difference.” work and travel promoting cancer Balnarring Picnic Racing Club. “There are so many things you can awareness around the state. “It’s very satisfying to do something for do as a senior. If you are able to, you Roy and 14 others recognised for RWKHUSHRSOHWRXVHP\SDVWH[SHULHQFHV VKRXOGXVH\RXUSDVWH[SHULHQFHVWRKHOS their community contributions were to help others,” said Roy in accepting others.” presented with their awards at a ceremony at Government House in October. Diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2006, Roy subsequently became the āUVW3URVWDWH$ZDUHQHVVYROXQWHHU ambassador appointed by the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia. He formed the Mornington Peninsula prostate cancer support group and was appointed Frankston Council’s bowel cancer community champion. The 77-year-old Roy, who has been an MCC member since 1961, also became WKHāUVWYROXQWHHUDPEDVVDGRUDSSRLQWHG by the National Stroke Foundation, as well as a beyondblue ambassador. He travels throughout Victoria promoting cancer awareness and other health issues. To date he has made more than 750 presentations. Roy is also very active elsewhere in his MCC 50-Year member and Victorian Senior of the Year, Roy Francis (left), with The local community, volunteering at various Honourable Linda Dessau, Governor of Victoria, and Minister for Housing, Disability sporting and active living groups, service and Ageing, Martin Foley.

Cricketer conquers English Channel

CC cricketer Shane Giese took Shane said after his journey. “I have changed, going against me,” recalls Mpre-season training to another always been interested in swimming, and Shane. “My speed dropped from 4.5 level in September, taking completing I would regularly go to the pool to swim kilometres per hour to 1.2, in the end, the famous English Channel swim from a couple of laps. the last three kilometres would take me southern England to northern France. “However, after I completed an three hours. Touching dry land was a While his teammates were in the nets Ironman event in 2015, and battling some moment I will never forget!” or discussing whether the Tigers could mental health issues for a few years, I Shane has played almost 150 Premier win that weekend’s AFL premiership, the thought why not try the hardest open Cricket matches since joining the club 29-year-old was taking on one of the water swim in the world? in 2004 as a 16-year-old. A talented busiest shipping lanes in the world. The “As crazy as it sounded to everyone left-arm fast-medium bowler, he earned solo voyage was a battle of the mind as else, I knew that I needed to do this for First XI selection in 2006-07 before back well as an enormous physical toll. me and those around me.” troubles saw him spend a few summers Seasickness, regular vomiting and The 20-30 hours of training Shane had on the sidelines or as a batsman in the changing currents in one of the busiest undertaken each week with renowned lower grades. He has since returned to shipping lanes in the world were just Channel swimmer, Chloe McCardel, put bowling and last season took 14 Third XI some of the challenges Shane faced him in good stead for the arduous task, scalps at 18.67. during a 13-hour, 50 kilometre swim. ZKLFKEHFDPHPRUHGLIāFXOWZLWKWKH His efforts in the water are sure to put “Swimming the English Channel had constantly changing conditions. DQ\IXWXUHFULFNHWāWQHVVVHVVLRQVLQWKH not been a long-term ambition of mine," “At the halfway mark the current shade.

NNOVENOVEMBEROVOOVEVVEEMBERMBEMBERE 2201202017010 7 MCCMCMCCCC NEWSNENEWNEW 177 CLUB FUNCTIONS

Function fun for everyone

The club again hosted a multitide of entertaining functions in the winter and spring seasons, with a variety of options for members and guests to enjoy.

ur first regional event in several an interview with Australian and Victorian TV commercial from the WSC era. One Oyears was held at Ballarat Golf cricketer, . Selected to play Test suspects an alert manager would not let the Club on July 26. An Evening with the cricket in Sri Lanka in 2016, Holland spoke opportunity pass these days. Coodabeens included a presentation by the about that experience and how quickly it The final Comedy @ the ‘G function for MCC Committee, before the Coodabeen came about due to a number of injuries to the year was held on July 28 in the Hans Champions took to the stage for a theatre- Australian bowlers. Ebeling Room prior to the Hawthorn v style performance. Holland said he has taken much from match. Comedians Toby MCC president Steven Smith and CEO being part of the Australian team and it was, Halligan, Cal Wilson and Matt Stewart were Stuart Fox were present, alongside members overall, a great learning experience. He also in fine form. of senior management, to discuss the latest touched on his successful Sheffield Shield In the final round of the AFL home and happenings around the club and to answer season, which included taking eight wickets away season, almost 100 members and questions from members and guests. in the final to propel the Bushrangers to guests attended a luncheon for dual MFC/ The following week, two functions were another title. MCC members in the Hans Ebeling Room held on the same day at different locations. After main course, former Australian prior to the Collingwood-Melbourne match On August 5, the VRC/MCC Members’ fast bowler Len Pascoe took to the lectern. on August 26. However, many in the room Raceday Event was held at Flemington, To say that Len could tell a story with went home deflated as the Demons lost to while the Women of the MCC group held great enthusiasm and energy would be an their archrivals and, ultimately, missed a a function in the Committee Room at the understatement. Len’s ability to draw the finals berth. Carlton v Essendon match. crowd into this tale was effortless, albeit While the AFL community enjoyed a For the 17th consecutive year, we fraught with twists and turns along the way. weekend off before the finals series, around celebrated the life of Sir Donald Bradman Len’s address told the story of a cricketer 400 members and guests attended the Young at The Bradman Luncheon on August 24. A who is very passionate about the game Members’ Ball on September 2, themed packed Members Dining Room was treated and who reached his potential. On many ‘One Hit Wonders Disco’. After pre-dinner to an afternoon of fabulous food and great occasions he touched on his great friendship drinks and canapés in the Long Room, entertainment. with fellow quick, Jeff Thomson, and the everyone adjourned to the Members Dining The day began with a stirring operatic adventures they got up to as cricketers and Room for dinner and a night of dancing to performance by Sir Don’s granddaughter, school mates. some classic disco hits. Greta, who despite being unwell, performed One of the An intimate group of 60 diners enjoyed beautifully. She was accompanied by pianist signatories, Len lamented that he had a unique dining experience in the MCG Rhodri Clarke; the two performers so not earned one cent in royalties from his Culinary Centre on September 13. Our perfectly matched. “Pascoe’s making divots in the green” hospitality partner, EPICURE, opened up MC then conducted line in that famous C’mon Aussie C’mon its kitchen to allow members and guests to

18 MCC NEWS NOVEMBER 2017 CLUB FUNCTIONS

savour delicious fare and speak to the chefs The following evening, young in intimate surrounds. members attended a Scotch Malt Whisky As Richmond and Adelaide Crows Appreciation Evening in the Long Room. prepared for their grand final battle on the This very popular event was again hosted last Saturday in September, a big week of by the Scotch Malt Whisky Society and functions was in full swing at the MCG. involved tasting some of the finest and The annual Sporting Sections Grand rarest single cask malts in the world. Final Week Luncheon was held on Monday To round out a busy fortnight for young September 25 and was again hosted by members, a Wine Appreciation Evening was popular duo Ian Cover and Tony Leonard. held on November 16 in the Long Room. Retiring Hawthorn captain, , The Next Generation of Australia’s First gave no indication he was about to become Families of Wine, belonging to some of a player when he addressed Australia’s oldest multi-generational family- the room, giving some great insights into his owned wineries, took members and guests outstanding career and his favourite grand on a journey through their family vineyards, final day memories. which includes some of the most loved and That evening, the Brownlow Dinner with respected names in Australian wine. the Coodabeens again proved to be one of Another feature on the functions calendar the club’s most popular events. More than is the MCC XXIX Club Annual Dinner, 470 attendees packed the Members Dining which this year was held on November 15. Room as the Coodabeens brought their It has been 60 years since the inaugural usual wit, humour and song for a 12th year annual dinner of this special interest group, running. and former Australian batsman Chris The MCC Young Members Club, catering Rogers lived up to the occasion as guest for the interests of members aged 18-40 speaker. years, held three events in a fortnight in As we look ahead, the month of November, each one a sell-out affair. December contains a number of highly- On November 1, Stuart Fox joined anticipated functions for members and former AFL general manager of football guests. The Christmas Masterclass operations, Adrian Anderson, and AFL head (December 2), Members’ Dinner (December of government relations, Jude Donnelly, on a 12), Christmas Luncheon (December 25) panel to discuss all things sport and business and Test breakfasts on December 26 and 27 at the Young Members’ Professionals are all sold out. We can’t wait. Breakfast in the Committee Room.

NOVEMBER 2017 MCC NEWS 19 FUNCTION NEWS

Australia Day lunch TRADITION CONTINUES

ustralian War Memorial director, Dr Brendan Nelson, will be issues and led the campaign against tobacco advertising and Aour guest speaker at the 12th annual Australia Day Luncheon sponsorship of sport. in the Long Room on January 26. A switch to politics saw Dr Nelson elected to Federal Parliament This function has grown to become an anticipated event on in 1996. He became Minister for Defence in 2006 and, in our calendar, as MCC members and their guests celebrate our November 2007, he was elected leader of the Liberal Party of QDWLRQDOGD\LQāQHVW\OH Australia, serving as Leader of the Opposition until September Since his appointment as Australian War Memorial director in 2008. 2012, Dr Nelson has helped the nation look beyond the statistics The following year he retired from federal politics before to focus on the people who fought and died for their country. taking up an appointment as Australian Ambassador to Belgium, He was at the centre of planning and delivery of major events in /X[HPERXUJWKH(XURSHDQ8QLRQDQG1$72,WZDVLQWKLVUROH 2015 to commemorate the Centenary of Anzac, 100 years since that forged deep links with the communities of Flanders, where $XVWUDOLDQDQG1HZ=HDODQGWURRSVāUVWODQGHGRQWKHVKRUHVRI almost 18,000 Australians lost their lives during the First World the Gallipoli peninsula as part of the First World War. War. In 1993, Dr Nelson became national president of the Australian Tickets to the Australia Day Luncheon include a three-course Medical Association, becoming the youngest person ever to hold meal with beer, wine and soft drinks. Bookings opened on this position. He campaigned on a wide range of social policy November 28 via the club website or in person at the club.

DATE Friday January 26, 2018 $95 TIME MEMBERS 12.00pm for 12.30pm LOCATION $105 Long Room GUESTSGUGUESESTSTS DRESS $105 GUESTS Jacket and tie

Cricket function for Members' Golf Day young members at Kingston Heath

0HPEHUVVKRXOGPDUNWKHLUFDOHQGDUVIRUWKHQH[W Australia will take on England in a Twenty20 MCC golf day scheduled for Tuesday February 6 at International under lights at the MCG on February 10, Kingston Heath Golf Club. at which the MCC Young Members Club will host its The package includes green fee, light pre-round annual cricket function in the Hans Ebeling Room. refreshments and gourmet barbeque and beverages at Full and Restricted members may each bring up to the conclusion of the round. There will also be prizes four guests. Provisional members may each bring up on offer, as well as the awarding of the President’s Cup. to two guests. Function bookings will open on Monday Online bookings for this rare opportunity to H[SHULHQFHRQHRI$XVWUDOLDÚVSUHPLHUJROIFRXUVHVDUH January 9 at 9.00am. QRZEHLQJDFFHSWHGRQDāUVWLQāUVWVHUYHGEDVLV Dress code is smart casual, collared shirt. No denim The event is open to MCC members of all categories, DQGQRVQHDNHUV$OOERRNLQJVLQFOXGHāQJHUIRRGDQG SURYLGHGWKH\KROGDFOXE9*$RU:*9RIāFLDO drinks throughout the function as well as a reserved handicap. Members wishing to play together must seat on Level 2 to watch the cricket. book together. Further details can be found at mcc.org.au.

20 MCC NEWS NOVEMBER 2017 FUNCTION NEWS

FUNCTIONS CALENDAR

There’s a broad range of entertaining functions to cater for members and guests over the next six months. Mark your diaries and keep an eye on the club website, email newsletters and social media for updates during the year.

Members' Christmas New 50-Year Members' Masterclass Luncheon

Saturday December 2 Wednesday December 6 MCG Culinary Centre Long Room

SOLD OUT BOOKINGS N/A

Members' Dinner Christmas Day Boxing Day Breakfast Luncheon Tuesday December 26 Tuesday December 12 Monday December 25 Members Dining Rom Members Dining Room Members Dining Room

SOLD OUT SOLD OUT SOLD OUT

Women in Cricket Australia Day Test Breakfast Luncheon

Tuesday December 27 Friday January 26 Members Dining Room Long Room

SOLD OUT BOOK NOW

Members' Golf Day Young Members' Women in Wine Cricket Function Thursday March 8 Tuesday February 6 Saturday February 10 Long Room Kingston Heath Golf Club Hans Ebeling Room BOOKINGS OPEN ON BOOKINGS OPEN ON BOOK NOW JANUARY 9 JANUARY 23

Young Members' MCG Footy Season Craft Beer Evening Launch Luncheon

Thursday March 15 Wednesday March 21 Jim Stynes Grill Members Dining Room BOOKINGS OPEN ON BOOKINGS OPEN ON BOOK NOW BOOKINGS OPEN ON BOOKINGS OPEN ON BOOK NOW JANUARY 9 JANUARY 23 FEBRUARY 13 FEBRUARY 13

NOVEMBER 2017 MCC NEWS 21 MEMBERS' NEWS

MCG is the place for all occasions

osting a function at the MCG, 21st milestone. Later that year, the occasions at the MCG, Laurie’s own Hwhether it be for a large corporation Committee Room was home to the 80th retirement function will be held in or a private family affair, is one of the birthday party of Elva, Laurie’s mother- the Committee Room at the end of most popular activities that takes place in-law. November to mark the end of his 30-year at the ‘G on a day-to-day basis, all year WHQXUHDVFKDSODLQDW&DXOāHOG*UDPPDU round. Around 1000 events were held School. The venue is a second home on non-match days last year, with more “ &DXOāHOG*6DOVRKHOGDQXPEHURILWV than 130,000 people in attendance. to both he and his family. Year 12 Valedictory Dinner events at The ‘G means many things to many the MCG, including this year, each with Plans had also been put in place for people, and everyone has their own PRUHWKDQSOXVGLQHUVHQMR\LQJāQH Laurie’s mother’s 100th birthday to be connection to the iconic stadium that food and great atmosphere in Australia’s held in the Committee Room in 2013 but, has just entered its 165th year. For MCC greatest stadium. Laurie recalls, that “sadly she passed member Reverend Laurie Barton, the “One of the great privileges as a away before we were able to have the venue is a second home to both he and member is to arrange and then celebrate party”. his family. VLJQLāFDQWRFFDVLRQVDWWKH0&*ÝVD\V A few months ago, his family returned Laurie received his MCC membership Laurie. “Over the years, I’ve been able to the MCG for his wife, Wendy’s, 60th 15 years ago and since then has held to hold a number of family functions in birthday party on the Robert Flower VRPHVLJQLāFDQWIDPLO\JDWKHULQJVLQWKH a variety of spaces, depending on the Terrace, with its stunning views over āUVWFODVVIDFLOLWLHVDWWKH0&* occasion and the number attending.” Yarra Park and the city. In 2006, he booked his eldest son Tom’s “On each occasion, Epicure has been “We had more than 80 guests in the 21st birthday in the Harrison Room, so helpful in making the arrangements, Flower Terrace,” says Laurie. “It was a perched on Level 2 of the Ponsford Stand and the club has been most generous in ORYHO\HYHQLQJZLWKWKHāQHZHDWKHU overlooking the turf. provision of spaces and managing the enabling people to be either inside or His family enjoyed the occasion so whole process. outside. The food was beautiful, and the much that Laurie did not hesitate to “I would thoroughly recommend other VHUYLFHāUVWUDWHÝ return to the same location in 2009 members to avail themselves of these To round out a decade of family to celebrate his second son Richard’s opportunities.”

YOUR NEXT SPECIAL OCCASION? COME TO THE MCG!

From spectacular CBD views of the rooftop Robbie Flower Terrace WRWKHH[FOXVLYHWUDGLWLRQRIWKH/RQJ5RRP PDNH\RXUQH[WHYHQWRQHWRUHPHPEHU

With over 15 stunning, world-class spaces available, the MCC Reserve can cater to all your event requirements.

Contact: James Gilham [email protected] or visit mcc.org.au/functions

22 MCC NEWS NOVEMBER 2017 MEMBERS' NEWS

Membership AFL TEAM SUPPRORT BY THE NUMBERS AMONG MCC MEMBERS

he number of members on the registered with the club, this means 17.4 % MELBOURNE club’s books is at its highest level in there are at least 9000 of you out there Thistory, underlining the continued either without email or you have yet to 13.4 % ESSENDON popularity of MCC membership in the advise us of it. We utilise email to update community. members, so if you have an email address 12.1 % COLLINGWOOD 7KHUHZHUHāQDQFLDOPHPEHUV please visit our website and ensure it is at August 31 this year, with another lodged in the system, or simply send it to 225,582 nominees waiting to join. More [email protected]. 9.7 % CARLTON than 44 per cent of those on the waiting While Melbourne is still the most list are under 15 years of age and we heavily supported AFL team among MCC 8.9 % RICHMOND are still accepting around 9-10,000 new members, the proportion on the Dees applications annually. bandwagon has fallen from 23 per cent a 8.3 % HAWTHORN With a membership age range from 15 GHFDGHDJRWRWKHSUHVHQWāJXUHRIMXVW to 101 (average age 45), almost 37 per cent over 17 per cent. of members live outside metropolitan The big Victorian-based clubs are, 8.3 % GEELONG Melbourne, including 4000 people who XQVXUSULVLQJO\QH[WLQOLQHZLWKWKH reside overseas. Bombers, Magpies, Blues, Tigers, Hawks 5.5 % ST KILDA We have 63,205 Full members (2667 and Cats well backed. And, for the of whom are 50-Year men), 42,902 record, there are 90 GWS supporters Restricted members and 15,831 amongst our members, and a further 81 5.1 % NO TEAM Provisional members. Females comprise who call Gold Coast their preferred team NORTH 24 per cent of membership and 34 per Interestingly, more than 6300 members 3.2 % MELBOURNE cent of waiting list candidates. (5.1 per cent) have no team listed. While WESTERN There were 35,210 members who did many of those will genuinely not follow 2.5 % BULLDOGS not attend an MCG event in 2016/17 a team (or AFL), we suspect a few of (September 1, 2016 to August 31, 2017). In you have slipped through the cracks, so SYDNEY 2.4 % fact, 56 per cent of members attended please visit the website or email the club SWANS two events or fewer in the last 12 months with your nominated team so we can BRISBANE 1.5 % DQGRQO\RQHāIWKHQWHUHGWKH5HVHUYH tailor relevant communications about LIONS RQVL[RUPRUHHYHQWGD\V matches in the 2018 AFL season and While more than 92 per cent of beyond. 1.7 % OTHER members have an email address

Off and racing MCC MEMBER ACCESS AT FLEMINGTON Monday January 1 New Year's Raceday (public holiday pricing) ne of the many benefits of MCC membership is our reciprocal Saturday January 13 Chester Manifold Stakes Day Opartnership with the Victoria Racing Club. MCC members, along with up to four guests, may access the Saturday January 20 January Raceday Members’ Enclosure at Flemington for selected VRC-hosted Saturday March 3 Australian Guineas Day* race meetings during the 2017/18 season (please refer to table). Access to the enclosure is not applicable for any other VRC Saturday March 17 Autumn Raceday racedays. Wednesday April 25 ANZAC Day (public holiday pricing) MCC members and their guests must pay the admission fee to the racecourse of $12 ($15 for public holiday meetings, excluding Saturday May 5 May Raceday Day) and then proceed to the Raceday and Saturday May 19 National Hall of Fame Raceday Ticketing Office to obtain Members’ Enclosure ticketing. Upon presentation of your photo ID membership card, MCC Saturday June 9 June Raceday members can obtain a complimentary Members’ Enclosure pass Saturday June 23 Provincial and Country Raceday and purchase passes ($25 each) for up to four guests. Saturday July 7 Flemington Finals Day

Saturday July 21 Recognition Raceday VRC members' dress regulations apply. Visit vrc.net.au for more information. *Total cost for this day would be $50, comprising $20 for racecourse admission and $30 for Members'Enclosure ticketing

NOVEMBER 2017 MCC NEWS 23 MEMBERS' NEWS

Your new membership card is coming...

s has been communicated previously, The pilot participants will receive on March 22. Athe club has been developing a new their new card in early December, as The card will have a new card number, membership card that contains features well as the details about how they can which will be needed to login to the that will add further value to your use it within the Reserve on match MCC website, as well as a new barcode membership. GD\VWRH[SHULHQFHDPRUHUHZDUGLQJ number which will be needed when Part of that program involves ensuring membership. From the moment they purchasing tickets online at Ticketek. members who have a photo on their receive it, the new card will replace the We will ensure members have access to H[LVWLQJFDUGWKDWLVPRUHWKDQVHYHQ H[LVWLQJFDUGDQGZLOOQHHGWREHXVHGWR this barcode before visitor tickets and years old complete the formal photo ID DFFHVVDQ\0&*HYHQWIURP%R[LQJ'D\ reserved seats to the 2018 AFL season go replacement process. Those people who onwards. RQVDOHLQ)HEUXDU\0DUFK H[DFWGDWHWR have who have more recently become Subject to a successful pilot program, be determined). members do not need to update their we will send new cards to those :HDUHH[FLWHGWRLQWURGXFHWKLV photo at this time. remaining members who have an program to our members and we look To the 40,000 or so members who updated photo from mid-February, in IRUZDUGWR\RXH[SHULHQFLQJDQHYHQ have updated their photo as part of time for it to be used to access MCG more rewarding membership very soon. this process, we thank you for your events from the start of the AFL season patience whilst we have worked through the details associated with your new membership card. Those who have yet to comply with the request for a new photo can do so either at an Australia Post outlet or in SHUVRQDWWKHFOXERIāFH This process is being funded by the club and, if you are required to provide a new photo, we ask that you do so at your earliest opportunity. Before we introduce the new card to all members, we have randomly chosen a VDPSOHRIDSSUR[LPDWHO\PHPEHUV to participate in a pilot program during the upcoming cricket season in December and January.

Footy crowds up at the ‘G

The 2017 AFL season was a those games drew crowds in excess of successful one at the MCG, with a 90,000. tenant club winning the premiership In the MCC Reserve, home and away 2.351 and attendances rising sharply on the attendances were up by almost 20 previous season. per cent. With the average audience MILLION Across the home and away season, of 11,722 (comprising 6389 members People scanned the MCG welcomed 2.351 million and 5333 visitors) representing just through the turnstiles people through the turnstiles at an over half of the Reserve’s capacity of during the 2017 AFL season. average of 51,116 per match. 23,000 it would seem we have scope This reflected an increase of 12.6 per to accommodate more people on cent compared to the 2016 figures, most match days. and can in part be attributed to the on-field success of Richmond, as well as improvement in form from MCC Reserve Melbourne and the big-drawing attendance up Essendon. by almost Richmond’s presence in three MCG 12.6% finals matches contributed a large INCREASE portion of the 344,836 fans across 20% Compared to the the four finals at the ‘G – three of 2016 AFL season.

24 MCC NEWS NOVEMBER 2017